The Denver Nuggets aren’t done yet.
Nikola Jokic delivered another MVP-level performance, scoring 29 points and grabbing 14 rebounds to lead Denver to a 119-107 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday night. With the victory, the Nuggets have evened the Western Conference semifinal series at 3-3 and forced a decisive Game 7 in Oklahoma City on Sunday.
Denver entered Game 6 with their backs against the wall, having blown late leads in the previous two matchups. But this time, they held strong down the stretch thanks not only to Jokic, but also to some unexpected heroes.
Julian Strawther’s Spark Off the Bench
Julian Strawther, a seldom-used second-year guard, delivered in a big way. Playing meaningful minutes for the first time in the series, Strawther scored all 15 of his points in the second half, including three clutch three-pointers. He also added playoff energy that had the home crowd roaring even after he lost a prosthetic tooth during a collision in the fourth quarter.
“That’s the moment you dream about as a kid,” Strawther said postgame. “To be out there, have the team trust me, and make a difference — it means everything.”
Interim head coach David Adelman, who has kept communication open with Strawther throughout the postseason, told him to stay ready — and the young guard certainly did.
Jamal Murray Guts Through Illness
Jamal Murray, who has been battling an illness, showed serious toughness, contributing 25 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists. Christian Braun chipped in with a double-double 23 points and 11 boards while Julian Strawther’s 15 helped steady the team while Jokic rested.
Thunder Can’t Close It Out
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 32 points in another standout effort, and rookie Chet Holmgren added 19 points and 11 rebounds. But despite Oklahoma City’s depth, including solid outings from Luguentz Dort, Alex Caruso, and Cason Wallace, they couldn’t match Denver’s second-half intensity.
The Thunder, who posted the NBA’s best regular-season record at 68-14, now face the pressure of closing things out at home in Game 7. Last season, the Nuggets were knocked out in a Game 7 and they’re clearly hungry to flip the script this time.
Injuries Loom Over Game 7
The Nuggets may have some health concerns heading into the winner-take-all clash. Forward Aaron Gordon exited late in Game 6 with a hamstring tweak and said after the game, “I feel OK… I’ll start recovery right away to be ready for Game 7.”
Michael Porter Jr. is also not at full strength. He’s been dealing with a sprained shoulder, requiring pain-killing injections to stay on the court. He scored 10 points on 4-of-9 shooting, but admitted he’s still not fully confident in his shot.
“I just have to stay confident and do whatever I can to help the team,” Porter said.
Up Next: Game 7 Showdown
With both teams tied at 3-3, all eyes will be on Sunday’s showdown in Oklahoma City. The winner will move on to face the surging Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference Finals.
Whether it’s Jokic’s brilliance, Murray’s resilience, or a surprise hero like Strawther, the Nuggets are proving they won’t go down without a fight.
Your daily dose of sports action starts at DanredSports.com—where passion meets reporting!